Howl You Keep Pets Safe This Halloween?

It’s that time of year again — when humans dress like tacos, skeletons, and inflatable dinosaurs. And pets? Well, they get dragged into the chaos with costumes they never asked for. Before you turn your golden retriever into a hot dog or your cat into a bat (spoiler: they’re not thrilled), let’s talk safety. Because while Halloween is a treat for us, it can be a trick for our furry sidekicks.

Costume or Catastrophe?

Your pug might look like the cutest bumblebee on the block, but costumes can cause stress, overheating, or even injury. Let’s keep the fashion fun and safe:

• Test drive the outfit early — if your pet looks confused or betrayed, take the hint.

• Avoid tight elastics, chewable bits, or anything that jingles like a haunted tambourine.

• Respect the “nope”: If your pet flattens like a pancake or gives you the death glare… abort mission.

  
  

Candy: Great for Kids, Terrible for Pets

Halloween candy is basically a danger buffet for pets — chocolate, xylitol, raisins, oh my!

• Hide the candy stash like it’s top secret. Pets are stealthy snack ninjas.

• Put up a sign: “No treats for pets, please!” Trick-or-treaters will understand.

• If your pet eats something suspicious, call your vet faster than you can say “fun-size Snickers.”

  
  

Doorbell Dread: The Real Horror Story

The doorbell rings. Your dog channels their inner werewolf. Your cat disappears into the void. Sound familiar?

• Create a chill zone with toys, treats, and calming vibes.

• Use baby gates or keep pets leashed near the door.

• Bonus: If your dog loves costumes, dress them as a bouncer. “No entry without belly rubs.”

  
  

Decor Dangers: Spooky, Not Scorched

Glow sticks, fake cobwebs, candles — Halloween décor can be a pet hazard playground.

• Skip the open flames. Pets and candles are a recipe for haunted house insurance claims.

• Ditch outdoor cobwebs — birds and wildlife can get tangled.

• Use LED lights instead of glow sticks. They’re safer and won’t turn your dog into a rave gremlin.

  
  

ID Tags & Microchips: The Real MVPs

With doors opening all night, pets can pull a Houdini.

• Make sure ID tags are current and readable.

• Double-check microchip info — it’s your pet’s invisible safety net.

  
  

The Final Treat

Halloween should be fun for everyone — including your pets. Whether your dog is a dapper Dracula or your cat is a reluctant wizard, keep the night safe, silly, and stress-free.

And if your pet photobombs your costume pics with a look of pure judgment? Frame it. That’s the real spirit of Howl-O-Ween.